Sport Nutritional Supplement Dispenser

ABSTRACT

A nutritional supplement dispenser for attachment to a bicycle frame or to a runner&#39;s belt has a hollow case with an openable top for placing tablets in the case and an inclined bottom tending to urge tablets forward under the influence of gravity. A dispenser located at a low point of the case dispenses a single tablet into an athlete&#39;s hand when manually depressed. VELCRO® brand fastener-equipped straps attach the case to the top tube and down tube of a bicycle or to a belt worn by a runner. Magnetically biased and spring biased dispensing mechanisms are described. A push-button dispensing mechanism is described. Bicycle-frame-conforming aerodynamic wings and a holster are described.

This application claims the benefit of prior U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/101,943, filed Oct. 1, 2008, the entirety of which isincorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to carrying and dispensing consumableitems, more particularly in the context of sports such as bicycling andrunning, and especially to carrying and mechanically dispensingnutritional supplement tablets to a bicyclist or runner duringcompetition.

BACKGROUND

During any endurance activity, particularly triathlons, cycling andrunning events, athletes are consuming nutritional supplements duringcompetition to replace water, electrolytes and energy lost duringcompetition. During a competition, it is very important to consumeelectrolytes which keep the body's neural connections going.Electrolytes are consumed before, during and after activity to replenishthe electrolytes excreted by the body.

Electrolytes come in many forms, such as tablets or powder. Tablets arepopular because they are not messy and are easily handled and stored.Some people carry them in a plastic baggy, which is both difficult toopen while moving, the tablets tend to fall out when opened, or thebaggy can blow away when riding. However there are devices fordispensing tablets while on the move. For example, Hammer Nutritionoffers a snap-cap, 20-tablet pill-bottle-type container, discussed onthe Web at the uniform resource locator (“url”),http://www.hammernutrition.com/za/HNT?PAGE=PRODUCT&CAT=ACC&PROD.ID=6363&adui=ad%2C9997.hbanner%2Csm%20-%20CD%20-%20new%20-%20Homebanners. Whenopened the tablets can bounce out and due to the dimensions it is hardto grab the desired amount, or a person must pour them into the palmpossibly spilling them all out. Another company is Salt Stick whichcreated a dispenser, discussed on the Web at urlhttp://www.saltstick.com/products/ssfull/ffeatures.htm, holds 3 or 6capsules depending on size of dispenser, loaded end-to-end, in a sleevewhich is capable of being inserted inside a tubular handlebar of aracing bicycle. Turning the knob end of the dispenser (which protrudesfrom the handlebar), the cyclist causes the release of one capsule.

However, not all handlebars are compatible with this particular productand, in any event, its capacity is limited. Moreover, during acompetitive event, cyclist needs both hands on the handlebars almostcontinuously for safety, and a runner needs to maintain form forefficiency. These athletes in competition have only a small margin ofattention and manual dexterity available for manipulating bottles,boxes, packs, zippers, wrappers, tubes, caps, knobs, tablets or thelike. A twisting motion while moving forward is not ergonomicallyfriendly. Therefore, a need exists for apparatus for quickly andreliably dispensing one tablet at a time to an athlete duringcompetition or training using minimal dexterity or attention, that isergonomically friendly, holds more tablets, is quick, and fits into anybike frame size or belt size.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

With safety, convenience, efficiency and the need to dispense tabletswith as little distraction as possible, a nutritional supplement tabletdispenser in accordance with the present invention takes the form of acase, having an enclosing front, back and sides adapted to contain aplurality of approximately cylindrical tablets; a bottom inclinedlowermost proximate the front, and a dispensing component locatedlowermost on the bottom, the dispensing component being manuallyoperable to dispense the tablets serially, from within the case, thecase being securable between a top tube, a front tube and a down tube ofa bicycle frame with clearance below the dispenser and above the downtube. A window is optionally formed in the case and the window renderscontents of the case visible from outside the case. A liner isoptionally applied within the case to at least one of the sides, front,back and bottom, the liner having noise-limiting or motion-limitingproperties. A flap is optionally so disposed within the case as to restupon tablets contained therein, the flap tending to restrict movement ofthe tablets within the case.

Also in an exemplary embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with thepresent invention, the dispensing component is operable between a closedposition and an open position relative to the case, the dispensingcomponent being capable of receiving a tablet from within the case whenin the closed position and of dispensing a tablet when in the openposition.

Also in an exemplary embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with thepresent invention, the dispensing component is rotatable between theclosed position and the open position.

Also in an exemplary embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with thepresent invention, the dispensing component which is translatablebetween the closed position and the open position. This dispensingcomponent is optionally spring-biased toward the closed position.

Also in an exemplary embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with thepresent invention, the dispensing component further comprises asubstantially hemi-cylindrical body, rotatably held between the sides ofthe case and alternately facing (a) in the closed position, upward andinwardly relative to the case and capable of receiving a tablet fromtherein, and (b) in the open position, downwardly and forwardly relativeto the case and capable of releasing a tablet; and a spring so engagedto the body and to the case as to bias the body in the closed position.

In one exemplary embodiment of the dispenser in accordance with thepresent invention, the dispensing component is magnetically biasedtoward the closed position. In another exemplary embodiment, a firstmagnetic body is disposed on the case and a second magnetic body isdisposed on the dispensing component and is attracted by the firstmagnetic body, thereby biasing the dispensing component in the closedposition.

Also in an exemplary embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with thepresent invention, the dispensing component which further comprises asubstantially hemi-cylindrical body, rotatably held between the sides ofthe case and alternately facing (a) in the closed position, upward andinwardly relative to the case and capable of receiving a tablet fromtherein, and (b) in the open position, downwardly and forwardly relativeto the case and capable of releasing a tablet; a first magnetic body isdisposed on the case; and a second magnetic body is disposed on thedispensing component and is attracted by the first magnetic body,thereby biasing the dispensing component in the closed position.

Also in an exemplary embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with thepresent invention, the dispensing component which is configured toreceive a tablet from above when in the closed position and to release atablet downwardly when in the open position.

Also in an exemplary embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with thepresent invention, the dispensing component which further comprises abutton face 112 having an upper edge 114 and a lower edge 116; an upperframe 118 projecting from the upper edge 114 and forming an upper gate120 dimensioned to pass a tablet; a lower frame 124 projecting from thelower edge 116 and forming a lower gate 126 dimensioned to pass atablet; the upper frame 118 and the lower frame 124 being so engagedwith the sides and bottom of the case as to be fixed laterally andvertically and translatable forwardly and rearwardly relative to thecase.

Also in an exemplary embodiment of a dispenser in accordance with thepresent invention, the case has at least one eyelet located proximatethe top of the case and adapted to be strapped to a bicycle frame toptube, and at least one bar located proximate the bottom of the case andadapted to be strapped to a bicycle frame down tube.

In another exemplary embodiment of the dispenser, the bottom, back andtop approximate the angles described by the top tube, front tube anddown tube of a bicycle frame and the back, sides and front are isdimensioned to provide clearance between the dispenser and the downtube.

Another exemplary embodiment further comprises a pair of substantiallyplanar wings approximately bridging the distance between the sides ofthe case and the front tube and the down tube of a bicycle frame,thereby presenting a substantially continuous lateral surface fromapproximately the sides of the front tube and down tube to the sides ofthe case.

Another exemplary embodiment further comprises a holster adapted to besecured to a bicycle frame and a rail attached to the case and adaptedfor engagement with the holster.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a further understanding of the objects and advantages of the presentinvention, reference should be had to the following detaileddescription, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, inwhich like parts are given like reference numbers and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of an exemplary embodiment of thenutritional supplement dispenser in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view thereof;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view thereof with the lid open showing a dampingflap elevated;

FIG. 4 is a side elevational view thereof showing the dispenser mountedto the top tube and down tube of a bicycle frame using three straps;

FIG. 5 is a side elevational view thereof showing the dispenser locatedon a belt worn by a competitor;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view thereof showing the lid closed and thedispensing portion open and a tablet visible therein;

FIG. 7 is a front elevational view thereof showing the lid closed anddispensing mechanism closed;

FIG. 8 is a top view thereof showing the lid open and tablets visibletherein;

FIG. 9 is a side sectional view thereof showing tablets therein helddown by the damper flap;

FIG. 10 is a cut-away side view of a second exemplary embodiment of thenutritional supplement dispenser in accordance with the presentinvention showing the dispensing mechanism and a spring;

FIG. 11 is a close up view of elements shown by FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view thereof showing the spring located in thedispenser;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a third exemplary embodiment of thenutritional supplement dispenser in accordance with the presentinvention showing the magnetically closable dispensing mechanism in theopen configuration;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view thereof showing the magnetically closabledispensing mechanism in the closed configuration;

FIG. 15 is perspective view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of thenutritional supplement dispenser in accordance with the presentinvention showing the window and tablets visible through the window;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view thereof from a different angle;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a fifth exemplary embodiment of thenutritional supplement dispenser in accordance with the presentinvention showing the tablets resting on a neoprene liner;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view thereof showing the lid open and theneoprene liner visible;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a sixth exemplary embodiment of thenutritional supplement dispenser in accordance with the presentinvention showing the dispenser located on a bicycle frame and wingsextending toward the bicycle frame;

FIG. 20 is another perspective view thereof from a different angle;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the push button dispensing component ofa seventh exemplary embodiment of the nutritional supplement dispenserin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 22 is another perspective view thereof from a different angle;

FIG. 23 is a side sectional view of the seventh exemplary embodiment ofthe nutritional supplement dispenser in accordance with the presentinvention showing the push button dispensing component in the depressedposition;

FIG. 24 is a side sectional view thereof showing the push buttondispensing component in the extended position;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view thereof showing the push button dispensingcomponent in the extended position;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view thereof showing the push button dispensingcomponent in the depressed position;

FIG. 27 is a partial perspective view of an eighth exemplary embodimentof the nutritional supplement dispenser in accordance with the inventionshowing a rail formed on the top of the case; and

FIG. 28 is a partial perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 27showing the holster having a guide configured to cooperate with the railon the case.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 shows a side elevational view of an exemplary embodiment of thenutritional supplement dispenser in accordance with the presentinvention, shown generally at 30, including a case 32 having ahorizontal top 34, a vertical front 36, a horizontal lid 35 disposedover the top (not shown), a fastener 39 attached to the lid 35 proximatethe front 36, a vertical back 38, a substantially inclined bottom 40,and opposite vertical sides 42, creating an interior space resemblingthat of a box with a sloping bottom surface. The opposing sides 42 ofthe case 32 each have eyelets 56 proximate the top 34 and bars 57proximate the bottom 40. A dispensing mechanism 44 is located on thecase 32 where the bottom 40 meets the front 36. The dispensing mechanism44 has spindle ends 72 and a hemi-cylindrical body 74 from which a tab76 projects.

FIG. 2, a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, shows the case32, top 34, front 36, back 38, bottom 40, opposite vertical sides 42,opposing sides 42, eyelets 56, top 34, bars 57, dispensing mechanism 44,spindle ends 72, hemi-cylindrical body 74 and tab 76. A lid 35 isdisposed proximate the top 34, between the sides 42, front 36 and back38. The lid 35 may be hinged, to the back 38. The lid 35 may be tetheredto prevent its loss. A VELCRO® brand fastener 39 is disposed on the lid35 proximate the front 36 and cooperates with a complementary fastenerpatch (not shown) located on the front 36 near where the front 36 meetsthe top 34.

FIG. 3, another perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, shows thecase 32, top 34, front 36, back 38, bottom 40, opposite vertical sides42, opposing sides 42, eyelets 56, top 34, bars 57, dispensing mechanism44, spindle ends 72, hemi-cylindrical body 74 and tab 76. The lid 35 isopen. The fastener 39 is shown. A damping flap 37 is attached to theback 38 proximate the top 34 and is shown elevated and extendingupwardly and rearwardly for clarity. Alternatively, the damping flap 37is attached to the lid.

With reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the case 32 accommodates asupply of tablets 46 (to be shown in later figures) which the bottom 40,being inclined, will guide forward toward the dispensing mechanism 44under the influence of gravity (see later figures). The lid 35 serves toclose the case 32 and protect the tablets 46. The damping flap 37, aswill be seen in later figures, reduces the freedom of the tablets 46 tomove about within the case 32 and rattle when the case 32 is agitatedduring use. The dispensing mechanism 44, as will be shown in laterfigures, is manually operable to release tablets 46, one at a time,during a competitive event. The eyelets 56 and the bars 57, as will beshown in later figures, facilitate securing the case 32 to a bicycleframe or to a belt worn by a competitor in a running event. The lid 35is to be closed before the case 32 is secured to a bicycle frame.

FIG. 4, a side elevational view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, shows thecase 32 secured to the top tube and the down tube of a bicycle frameusing three straps 58. Two straps 58 pass through the eyelets 56 andaround the top tube. A third strap 58 passes through the bar 57 andaround the down tube. The straps 58 cooperate to stably secure the case32 at a forward and easily reached location with the dispensingmechanism 44 facing rearward and having clearance relative to the downtube for easy manipulation by the rider.

FIG. 5, a side elevational view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, shows thecase 32 secured to a belt worn by a competitor in a running event. Twostraps 58 pass through the eyelets 56 on both sides 42 and across thetop (securing the lid) and around the runner's belt. A third strap 58optionally passes through the bar 57 and around the belt to stabilizethe case 32. Alternatively, a strap 58 passes through one eyelet 56,through the bar 57, and through the other eyelet 56, passing around thebelt as well. Optionally, the strap 58 passes through the eyelets 56 andthe bar 57 on only one side 42 of the case 32—the side 42 abutting thebelt. The dispensing mechanism 44 faces rearward at approximately waistheight and is easily manipulable by the runner.

FIG. 6, a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, shows the case,top 34, lid 35, fastener 39, front 36, back 38, bottom 40, oppositevertical sides 42, opposing sides 42, eyelets 56, top 34, bars 57,dispensing mechanism 44, spindle end 72, hemi-cylindrical body 74 andtab 76. The case 32 is shown with the lid 35 closed and the dispensingmechanism 44, which was shown closed in FIG. 1, is shown in an openposition. In particular, the hemi-cylindrical body 74 of the dispensingmechanism 44 is shown open with a tablet 46 located therein. Thedispensing mechanism 44 is dimensioned to allow one tablet 46 at a timeto be so located (the significance of which will be described withreference to later figures). With the hemi-cylindrical body 74positioned as shown, the tablet 46 is free to drop out of the dispensingmechanism 44 into the rider's hand under the influence of gravity.

FIG. 7, a front elevational view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, shows thecase 32, top 34, lid 35, fastener 39, front 36, back 38, bottom 40,opposite vertical sides 42, bars 57, dispensing mechanism 44,hemi-cylindrical body 74 and tab 76. The lid 35 is shown closed. Thedispensing mechanism 44 is shown with the hemi-cylindrical body 74closed and the tab 76 facing away from the front 36.

FIG. 8, a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, shows the case 32 withthe lid 35 open and tablets 46 oriented so as to roll toward andaccumulate above the dispensing mechanism 44. The damping flap 37 isshown affixed to the lid 35.

FIG. 9, a side sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, shows thecase 32, top 34, front 36, back 38, bottom 40, opposite vertical sides42, eyelets 56, top 34, fastener 39, bars 57, dispensing mechanism 44,spindle ends 72, hemi-cylindrical body 74 and tab 76. Tablets 46 areshown within the case 32. The damping flap 37 is shown disposed over thetablets 46. The dispensing mechanism 44 is shown in the closed positionwith the hemi-cylindrical body 74 thereof facing upward within the case32. In this position, the hemi-cylindrical body 74 can receive onetablet 46 from above. One tablet 46 is shown cradled within thehemi-cylindrical body 74. It can be appreciated from this figure that,if the hemi-cylindrical body 74 were to rotate into the open position(see FIG. 6), the tablet 46 would drop out of the dispensing mechanism44. It can also be appreciated that if the hemi-cylindrical body 74 weresubsequently returned to the closed position, another one of the tablets46 shown in the case 32 would drop into the dispensing mechanism 44.

With reference to FIGS. 1-9, the approximate dimensions of the case 32are width 1 inch, height ⅛ inch, length 2¼ inch. Tablets 46 are shownoccupying the case 32. Because the bottom 40 is inclined, the case 32under normal conditions is substantially upright, and the tablets 46 areunder the influence of gravity, the tablets 46 tend to accumulate at thedispensing mechanism 44. The dimensions are approximate and can beadapted to any tablet 46 capable of rolling. The dispenser 30 can bemade in various sizes, depending on the relative importance of capacityand compactness. Optionally, a hinge 47 is located where the top 34meets the back 38 and allows the lid 35 to open (FIG. 1). Optionally, aVELCRO® brand fastener 39 is disposed on the lid 35 proximate the front36 and cooperates with a complementary fastener patch (not shown)located on the front 36 near where the front 36 meets the top 34. Thus,the top 34 operates as a hinged closure which is upwardly openable toafford access to the interior space from the front 36 or sides 42, andis securably closable by means of the fastener 39 and fastener patch(not shown).

An optional damping flap 37 is disposed within the interior space andmovably attached to the back 38 where the back 38 meets the top 34,proximate the hinge 47. The damping flap 37 is wide enough to extendsubstantially all the way between the vertical sides 42 of the containerand long enough to extend substantially across the top 34 to the front36, without interfering with the sides 42 or front 36. The damping flap37 reduces motion and rattling of the tablets 46 when the case 32 isagitated. An approximately ⅛ inch thick neoprene liner 54 is suspendedbeneath the damping flap 37. Under the influence of gravity, the dampingflap 37 tends to swing downward toward the inclined bottom 40. Whentablets 46 are located within the case 32, the damping flap 37 andneoprene liner 54 rest on the tablets 46 and serve to limit the degreeto which the tablets 46 bounce around or rattle. Also optionally, in theinterior space, are neoprene or similar, non-water absorbent materialsare applied to the sides 42 to reduce any noise which might result fromtablets 46 rattling from side to side.

The opposing sides 42 of the case 32 each have first and second eyelets56 proximate the top 34. After the case 32 is filled with tablets 46 andthe top 34 is closed and secured, a strap 58 is passed through each pairof opposing eyelets 56 and secured with VELCRO® brand fasteners around atop tube 60 of a bicycle. The tablets 46 will not escape the case 32 viathe top 34, because the straps 58 hold the case 32 so firmly against thetop tube 60 that the top 34 is not openable, even if the fastener tab(not shown) and patch (not shown) are opened. Additionally, in the caseof a bicycle sport, the top of the case 32 is positioned under the toptube of the bicycle frame and is also beneath the straps 58, whichlimits the likelihood that liquids from the environment will be splashedinto the case 32 and ruin the tablets 46.

FIG. 4 shows a side elevational view of the dispenser 30 anchored to abicycle. An exterior bar 57 is attached to the inclined bottom 40. Thebar 57 provides structure for attaching the case 32 to the down tube ofthe bicycle by means of a VELCRO® strap 58 passed through the bar 57 andaround the down tube.

FIG. 5 shows a side view of the dispenser 30 mounted on a belt of thekind referred to in the sport as a “fuel belt.” Straps 58 will enter thefirst and second eyelets 56 at the top and attach to another piece orstrap 58 looped through the exterior bar 57 on the inclined bottom 40. Afirst example of a tablet 46 which is to be dispensed in accordance withthe present invention is sold under the name ENDUROLYTE by HammerNutrition, found at the url,http://www.hammernutrition.com/za/HNT?PAGE=PRODUCT&CAT=ELECT&PROD.ID=4037&OMI=10104,10082,10047&AMI=10104.This tablet's approximate dimensions are length 1 inch, diameter ¼ inch,and diameter ¼ inch. Athletes are advised to consume between 1 and 6tablets per hour. A second example of such a tablet 46 is sold under thename SALT STICK by Salt Stick,http://www.saltstick.com/products/sscaps/cfeatures.htm. This tablet'sapproximate dimensions are length 1 inch, diameter ¼ inch, and diameter¼ inch. Athletes are advised to consume between 1 and 2 tablets perhour. Other tablets with rolling capability may be used. Dimensions maybe changed to accommodate them.

The dispensing mechanism 44 is configured to dispense tablets 46 whichare oriented crosswise within the case 32, with the remaining tablets 46settling and rolling toward the dispensing mechanism 44 as each tablet46 is dispensed. The dispensing mechanism 44 is of the type that ejectsone tablet 46 at a time toward the rider's hand, which is to bepositioned underneath the dispensing mechanism 44. The rider's palmwould naturally be in that location as the rider manipulates thedispensing mechanism 44. The dispensing mechanism 44 is engaged to thesides 42 of the case 32 such that the respective surfaces thereoffrictionally stabilize the hemi-cylindrical body 74 relative to the case32 unless sufficient force is applied to the tab 76 by an operator whointends to obtain a tablet 46.

With reference again to FIG. 5, a nutritional supplement dispenser 30for a runner's belt, sometimes referred to as the runner's “fuel belt”or “race belt” comprises the structure of the embodiment shown in FIGS.1-4 and described above and strapped to the runner's belt. If positionedat the runner's side, the dispenser 30 faces forward or rearward; ifpositioned at the runner's front or rear or side, the dispenser 30 facessideways, all being a matter of the runner's choice according topersonal preference.

FIG. 10, a cut-away side view of a second exemplary embodiment of thenutritional supplement dispenser 30 in accordance with the presentinvention, shows the case 32 with front 36, bottom 40, bar 57,dispensing mechanism 44 including spindle end 72, hemi-cylindrical body74 and tab 76. A body spring receiving groove 75 is formed in thehemi-cylindrical body 74, enclircles the spindle end 72, extendstangentially therefrom toward the tab 76. A spring 78 is shown having aspring first end 77 lodged in the body spring receiving groove 75proximate the tab 76. The spring 78 encircles the spindle end 72 severaltimes. A spring second end 79 projects tangentially away from thespindle end 72, toward the bottom 40 and toward the back 38,approximately in a plane somewhat lateral to that containing the springfirst end 77.

FIG. 11, a close up view of elements shown by FIG. 10, shows the case 32with front 36, bottom 40, dispensing mechanism 44 including spindle end72, hemi-cylindrical body 74 and tab; the body spring receiving groove75, spring 78, spring first end 77, body spring receiving groove 75, andspring second end 79 with greater clarity.

FIG. 12, a perspective view of the embodiment shown by FIG. 10, showsthe case 32 with front 36, bottom 40, sides 42, and bar 57. A spindleend receiving bore 71 is formed in each side 42 to receive the spindleend (not shown) and hold the spindle end in rotatable relation to thesides 42. A case spring receiving groove 73 is formed in one side 42 ofthe case 32, encircles the spindle end receiving bore 71, and extendstangentially therefrom, projecting toward the back 38. The spring 78 isshown lodged in the case spring receiving groove 73 with the springsecond end 79 projecting toward the back 38 and the spring first end 77projecting toward the front 36 in a plane somewhat central to thatcontaining the spring second end 79.

With reference to FIGS. 10-12, the spring 78 is installed in anelastically deformed condition before the spring first end 77 is lodgedin the body spring receiving groove 75 and the spring second end 79 islodged in the case spring receiving groove 73. Thus, after the spindleends 72 are engaged with the spindle end receiving bores 71, the spring78 biases the hemi-cylindrical body 74 in the closed position, whereuponit is unlikely to open until a downward force is applied to the tab 76.Frictional resistance to operation of the dispensing mechanism 44 may bedesirable in small amounts, but should not be so great as to interferewith the operator's ability to obtain a tablet 46 by simply pushing downon the tab: the dispensing mechanism 44 should close as soon as theoperator stops pressing.

With reference generally to FIGS. 1-12, the dispensing mechanism 44protrudes forward from the case 32 where the front 36 meets the bottom40 (although, keep in mind, “forward” in the frame of reference fordescribing the dispenser 30 of present invention is seen as “backwards”in the frame of reference of a bicycle). Optionally, as shown in FIGS.10-12, the dispensing mechanism 44 is biased upward in a closed positionby a spring 78, preventing tablets 46 from exiting from the case 32 viathe dispensing mechanism 44. The dispensing mechanism 44 is downwardlydisplaceable responsive to downward force manually applied to thedispensing mechanism 44. The spring 78 is coupled to the dispensingmechanism 44 and to the case 32.

The operator presses downward on the tab 76 of the dispensing mechanism44. As the operator does so, the operator's hand is positioned slightlybelow the front 36 of the case 32 where the front 36 meets the bottom40, where the pill will be ejected The downward pressure on thedispensing mechanism 44 displaces the dispensing mechanism 44 downwardfrom its biased upward closed position. Consequently, the dispensingmechanism 44 opens sufficiently for a single tablet 46—the one tablet 46farthest forward and closest to the bottom 40—to exit the case 32 viathe dispensing mechanism 44 and drop into the operator's hand. Also asthe dispensing mechanism 44 is displaced downward, the dispensingmechanism 44 reaches a blocking position wherein it blocks all othertablets 46 from exiting the case 32 via the dispensing mechanism 44. Theoperator releases pressure from the dispensing mechanism 44. Thedispensing mechanism 44 returns to its biased upward closed position, atwhich point the dispensing mechanism 44 again prevents any tablet 46from exiting the case 32 via the dispensing mechanism 44. Also as thedispensing mechanism 44 returns to its biased upward closed position,the dispensing mechanism 44 ceases to be in the blocking position andthus allows other tablets 46 within the case 32 to settle and rolltoward the dispensing mechanism 44, so that a new tablet 46—the nexttablet 46—is now farthest forward and closest to the bottom 40. Theoperator repeats this procedure when additional tablets 46 are needed.Exactly one tablet 46 has been dispensed. The dispensing mechanism 44,hand movement, and release and capture of a tablet 46 are the samewhether the case 32 is attached to a bicycle frame or to a runner'sbelt.

FIG. 13, a partial perspective view of a third exemplary embodiment ofthe nutritional supplement dispenser 30 in accordance with the presentinvention, shows the case 32 with front 36, back 38, sides 42, bottom40, bar 57, and spindle end receiving bore 71. The dispensing mechanism44 is shown having a hemi-cylindrical body 74, a spindle end 72, and atab 76. A first magnetic body 82 is located in the front 36 of the case32 proximate the cylindrical body. A second magnetic body 84 is locatedin the tab 76. The dispensing mechanism 44 is shown in the open, tabletreleasing position.

FIG. 14, a perspective view of the embodiment shown by FIG. 13, (from adifferent angle and including the top, eyelets 56, and lid 35) shows thecase 32, top 34, front 36, back 38, bottom 40, opposite vertical sides42, eyelets 56, top 34, lid 35, fastener 39, bars 57, dispensingmechanism 44, spindle ends 72, hemi-cylindrical body 74 and tab 76. Thedispensing mechanism 44 is shown in the closed configuration, whereinthe second magnetic body 84 is in abutting relation to the firstmagnetic body 82. Attraction between the first magnetic body 82 and thesecond magnetic body 84 holds the dispensing mechanism 44 in the closedposition until the attraction is overcome by a downward force applied tothe tab 76. The first magnetic body 82 and the second magnetic body 84are subject to mutual magnetic attraction. At least one of them includesa magnet. If both are magnets, they are arranged with oppositepolarities. Frictional resistance to operation of the dispensingmechanism 44 may be desirable in small amounts, but should not be sogreat as to interfere with the operator's ability to obtain a tablet 46by pushing down on the tab 76 and to close the dispensing mechanism 44by lifting the tab 76 until the magnetic attraction pulls the dispensingmechanism 44 into the closed position.

FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, perspective views of a fourth exemplary embodimentof the nutritional supplement dispenser 30 in accordance with thepresent invention, show the case 32 with top, eyelets 56, lid 35,fastener 39, front 36, back 38, sides 42, bottom 40, bar 57, and spindleend receiving bore 71. The dispensing mechanism 44 is shown having ahemi-cylindrical body 74, a spindle end 72, and a tab 76. A firstmagnetic body 82 is located in the front 36 of the case 32 proximate thecylindrical body. A second magnetic body 84 is located in the tab 76.The dispensing mechanism 44 is shown in the closed position. A window 92is formed in the side. Tablets 46 are shown as being visible through thewindow 92, enabling the operator to estimate how many tablets 46 remainin the case 32.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a fifth exemplary embodiment of thenutritional supplement dispenser 30 in accordance with the presentinvention showing the case 32 with top, eyelets 56, lid 35, front 36,back 38, sides 42, bottom 40, bar 57, and spindle end receiving bore 71.The dispensing mechanism 44 is shown having a hemi-cylindrical body 74,a spindle end 72, and a tab 76. A first magnetic body 82 is located inthe front 36 of the case 32 proximate the cylindrical body. A secondmagnetic body 84 is located in the tab 76. The dispensing mechanism 44is shown in the closed position. Tablets 46 are shown, visible throughthe window 92, resting on a neoprene liner 54 which cushions the tablets46 and reduces their tendency to rattle when shaken. FIG. 18 is aperspective view of the embodiment shown by FIG. 17 showing the neopreneliner 54 visible from above with the top uncovered.

FIG. 19, a perspective view of a sixth exemplary embodiment of thenutritional supplement dispenser 30 in accordance with the presentinvention shows the case 32 with front 36, back 38, sides 42, spindleend receiving bore 71, top, eyelets 56, lid 35, and window 92. Thedispensing mechanism 44 is shown having the hemi-cylindrical body 74,spindle ends 72, tab 76, and first magnetic body 82. The case 32 isshown located on a bicycle frame and wings 102 extending toward thebicycle frame. The case 32 may be held in place by straps 58 as shown inFIG. 4. A wing 102 extends downwardly from each side 42 proximate thebottom 40 (which faces the down tube of the bicycle frame) and extendshorizontally from each side 42 proximate the back 38 (which faces thevertically oriented tube at the front 36 of the bicycle frame). The wing102 presents a substantially continuous vertical surface between thedown tube and the side 42 of the case 32, thereby reducing airturbulence around the case 32. FIG. 20 is another perspective view ofthe embodiment shown by FIG. 19 from a different angle.

FIG. 21, a perspective view of a push button dispensing component 110for a seventh exemplary embodiment of the nutritional supplementdispenser 30 in accordance with the present invention, shows the pushbutton dispensing component 110 having a vertically oriented rectangularbutton face 112 having an upper edge 114 and a lower edge 116. Ahorizontally oriented rectangular upper frame 118 extends rearwardlyfrom the upper edge 114 of the button face 112. A crosswise orientedrectangular upper gate 120 is formed in the upper frame 118, slightlymore than two tablet-widths rearward of the button face 112. The uppergate 120 is wide enough to easily pass a tablet 46 oriented crosswiseunder the influence of gravity. For convenient reference, this width,somewhat wider than the width of the tablets 46 being dispensed, yetsubstantially less than the width of two such tablets 46, is “a tabletwidth,” width in this sense being in the forward-rearward dimensionrelative to the frame. The upper frame 118 extends rearwardly of theupper gate 120 for approximately an additional one and one half tabletwidths. A stop 122 extends a few millimeters upward from the upper frame118 immediately forward of the upper gate 120.

A horizontally oriented rectangular lower frame 124 extends rearwardlyfrom the lower edge 116 of the button face 112. A crosswise orientedrectangular lower gate 126 is formed in the lower frame 124, about onehalf tablet-width rearward of the button face 112. The lower gate 126 isalso one tablet width wide (width in this sense being in theforward-rearward dimension relative to the frame). The lower frame 124extends rearwardly of the lower gate 126 for approximately an additionalone tablet width.

FIG. 21 shows that the lower gate 126 is offset forward of the uppergate 120. The vertical separation between the upper frame 118 and thelower frame 124 is slightly more than one tablet width, sufficient toallow one tablet 46 to move from the upper gate 120 to the lower gate126 within the push button dispensing mechanism 44.

FIG. 22 is another perspective view of the push button dispensingcomponent 110 shown by FIG. 21 from a different angle. The button face112, upper edge 114, upper frame 118, upper gate 120, stop 122, loweredge 116, lower frame 124, and lower gate 126 are shown.

FIG. 23, a side sectional view of the seventh exemplary embodiment ofthe nutritional supplement dispenser 30 in accordance with the presentinvention showing the push button dispensing component 110 located inthe case 32 and in a rearwardly depressed position relative to the case32. FIG. 24, another side sectional view, shows the push buttondispensing component 110 in a forwardly extended position. As it islocated forward and low on the case 32, the upper frame 118 supports thetablets 46, the lowermost of which tends to drop through the upper gate120 when the button face 112 is in the extended position. Optionally,access to the upper gate 120 is restricted (as, for example, by aforward extension of the bottom 40 of the case 32 immediately above theupper frame 118) so that the tablets 46 tend only to rest on the upperframe 118 when the button face 112 is in depressed position. In anyevent, once a tablet 46 has fallen into the push button dispensingcomponent 110, it tends to rest on the lower frame 124 when the buttonface 112 is in the extended position and to fall out through the lowergate 126 when the button face 112 is in the depressed position. Thus,with each cycle of movement of the button face 112 from the extendedposition, to the depressed position, and back to the extended position,one tablet 46 is dispensed into the competitor's hand and one tablet 46passes into the push button dispensing component 110 to replace thetablet 46 that was dispensed.

FIG. 25 and FIG. 26 are perspective views of the embodiment shown byFIGS. 23-24, showing the push button dispensing component 110 in theextended position. The stop 122 interferes with the front 36 of the case32 to limit forward travel of the push button dispensing component 110.The stop 122 interferes with the bottom 40 of the case 32 to limitrearward travel of the push button dispensing component 110. The front36 and bottom 40 of the case 32 cooperate to confine the push buttondispensing component 110 laterally and vertically. The bottom 40 extendsbetween the sides 42 at the front 36 of the case 32 to limit theavailable downward path of the tablet 46 to much less than a tabletwidth except when the button face 112 is in the depressed position.Friction between the dispensing mechanism 44 and the case 32 may beutilized to limit unintended movement of the dispensing mechanism 44.Alternatively, the dispensing mechanism 44 may be elastically (e.g.,spring disposed rearward of upper frame 118 or lower frame 124 andimpinging on bottom 40 of case 32; foam or rubber band similarlysituated) or magnetically biased in the closed position.

FIG. 27, a partial perspective view of an eighth exemplary embodiment ofthe nutritional supplement dispenser in accordance with the invention,shows a rail 130 formed on the top 34 of the case 32.

FIG. 28, a partial perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 27, showsa holster 132 having a guide 134 configured to cooperate with the rail130 on the case 32. The holster 132 has a bar 57 which is usable tostrap the holster 132 to the top tube of a bicycle frame proximate thefront of the frame. To mount the dispenser 30 on the frame, a riderslides the rails 130 forward (relative to the bicycle) into the guides134 of the holster 132. The rails 130 and guides 134 are dimensioned toprovide frictional resistance to retain the rails 130 in the guides 134when the bicycle is in motion. Alternatively, the holster 132 is securedto a belt worn by an athlete and the rider slides the rails 130 downwardinto the guides 134 of the holster 132.

The several embodiments of a nutritional supplement dispenser describedherein are all viable solutions of the problem of dispensing one pill ata time, ergonomically, safely, and efficiently. The operator does notneed to count the number of tablets 46 ejected, but only to keep trackof how many tablets 46 were added originally and the number of times heor she has operated the dispensing mechanism 44 and consumed the ejectedtablet 46. The optional transparent window 92 conveniently enables theoperator to see how many tablets 46 remain (see, e.g., FIG. 15).

The nutritional supplement tablet dispenser in accordance with thepresent invention meets an unmet need for bicycle-mounted orbelt-mounted apparatus capable of dispensing a single tablet at a timeto a person in motion.

In accordance with the present invention, high density polyethylene or asimilarly tough, food-compatible material is sufficient for most partsincluding the case 32, dispensing mechanism 44, damping flap 37 andliner 34. The straps 58 are of Nylon. The inside side panels are linedwith a neoprene type, non water absorbent material.

Optionally, a tapered front profile, referred to herein as a wing 102,is located between the case 32 and the down tube and the front head setof a bicycle frame to reduce wind turbulence and drag and to improveappearance. Such a wing 102 may be attached to the back 38 of the case32 and extend forward to rest on the front frame of the bike. Keepingthe wing 102 tightly held to the frame is a spring between the twopanels, pulling them toward each other so that they clamp onto thebicycle frame.

Referring to FIGS. 27 and 28 is the holster design and holster,respectively. The holster would be mounted to the bike or belt viaVelcro straps 58 through the two holes on the sides 42. Then thedispenser 30, with the holster design added wings, would simply slideinto the holster mounted on the bike or fuel belt. This enables a personto easily transfer their electrolytes from the bike to the run simply byremoving the dispenser 30 off the bike and onto the holster on the fuelbelt.

As can be seen from the drawing figures and from the description, eachembodiment of the nutritional supplement dispenser in accordance withthe present invention solves a problem by addressing the need for asimply operated device that dispenses one tablet 46 at a time to a busyathlete during competition.

The nutritional supplement dispenser in accordance with the presentinvention can be utilized by people needing to dispense a pillfrequently throughout the day, not only by athletes. A person who musttake a tablet frequently may attach this device to a garment or belt ifthe tablet to be dispensed is capable of rolling. For such anapplication, a smaller case 32 is preferable because it is discrete andergonomically friendly, especially when compared with the inconvenienceof opening a child-proof standard pharmacy pill bottle.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and describedherein, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that anyarrangement calculated to achieve same purposes can be substituted forthe specific embodiments shown. This disclosure is intended to cover anyand all adaptations or variations of various embodiments of theinvention. It is to be understood that the above description has beenmade in an illustrative fashion, and not a restrictive one. Combinationsof the above embodiments, and other embodiments not specificallydescribed herein will be apparent to those of skill in the art uponreviewing the above description. The scope of various embodiments of theinvention includes any other applications in which the above structuresand methods are used. Therefore, the scope of various embodiments of theinvention should be determined with reference to the appended claims,along with the full range of equivalents to which such claims areentitled.

In the foregoing description, if various features are grouped togetherin a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure,this method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting anintention that the claimed embodiments of the invention require morefeatures than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as thefollowing claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than allfeatures of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus the following claims,and such other claims as may later be added, are hereby incorporatedinto the description of the embodiments of the invention, with eachclaim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment.

1. A nutritional supplement tablet dispenser, comprising: a case, havingan enclosing front, back and sides adapted to contain a plurality ofapproximately cylindrical tablets; a bottom inclined lowermost proximatesaid front, and a dispensing component located lowermost on said bottom,said dispensing component being manually operable to dispense saidtablets serially, from within said case, said case being securablebetween a top tube, a front tube and a down tube of a bicycle frame withclearance below said dispenser and above said down tube.
 2. A dispenseras set forth in claim 1, wherein a window is formed in said case andsaid window renders contents of said case visible from outside saidcase.
 3. A dispenser as set forth in claim 1, wherein a liner is appliedwithin said case to at least one of said sides, front, back and bottom,said liner having noise-limiting or motion-limiting properties.
 4. Adispenser as set forth in claim 1, further comprising a flap so disposedwithin said case as to rest upon tablets contained therein, said flaptending to restrict movement of the tablets within said case.
 5. Adispenser as set forth in claim 1, wherein said dispensing component isoperable between a closed position and an open position relative to saidcase, said dispensing component being capable of receiving a tablet fromwithin said case when in said closed position and of dispensing a tabletwhen in said open position.
 6. A dispenser as set forth in claim 5,wherein said dispensing component is rotatable between said closedposition and said open position.
 7. A dispenser as set forth in claim 5,wherein said dispensing component is translatable between said closedposition and said open position.
 8. A dispenser as set forth in claim 6,wherein said dispensing component is spring-biased toward said closedposition.
 9. A dispenser as set forth in claim 8, wherein saiddispensing component further comprises a substantially hemi-cylindricalbody, rotatably held between said sides of said case and alternatelyfacing (a) in said closed position, upward and inwardly relative to saidcase and capable of receiving a tablet from therein, and (b) in saidopen position, downwardly and forwardly relative to said case andcapable of releasing a tablet; and a spring so engaged to said body andto said case as to bias said body in said closed position.
 10. Adispenser as set forth in claim 6, wherein said dispensing component ismagnetically biased toward said closed position.
 11. A dispenser as setforth in claim 10, wherein a first magnetic body is disposed on saidcase and a second magnetic body is disposed on said dispensing componentand is attracted by said first magnetic body, thereby biasing saiddispensing component in said closed position.
 12. A dispenser as setforth in claim 10, wherein said dispensing component further comprises asubstantially hemi-cylindrical body, rotatably held between said sidesof said case and alternately facing (a) in said closed position, upwardand inwardly relative to said case and capable of receiving a tabletfrom therein, and (b) in said open position, downwardly and forwardlyrelative to said case and capable of releasing a tablet; a firstmagnetic body is disposed on said case; and a second magnetic body isdisposed on said dispensing component and is attracted by said firstmagnetic body, thereby biasing said dispensing component in said closedposition.
 13. A dispenser as set forth in claim 7, wherein saiddispensing component is configured to receive a tablet from above whenin said closed position and to release a tablet downwardly when in saidopen position.
 14. A dispenser as set forth in claim 13, wherein saiddispensing component further comprises: a button face 112 having anupper edge 114 and a lower edge 116; an upper frame 118 projecting fromsaid upper edge 114 and forming an upper gate 120 dimensioned to pass atablet; a lower frame 124 projecting from said lower edge 116 andforming a lower gate 126 dimensioned to pass a tablet; said upper frame118 and said lower frame 124 being so engaged with said sides and bottomof said case as to be fixed laterally and vertically and translatableforwardly and rearwardly relative to said case.
 15. A dispenser as setforth in claim 1, further comprising at least one eyelet locatedproximate said top of said case and adapted to be strapped to a bicycleframe top tube, and at least one bar located proximate said bottom ofsaid case and adapted to be strapped to a bicycle frame down tube.
 16. Adispenser as set forth in claim 1, wherein said bottom, back and topapproximate the angles described by the top tube, front tube and downtube of a bicycle frame and the back, sides and front are is dimensionedto provide clearance between said dispenser and said down tube.
 17. Adispenser as set forth in claim 1, further comprising a pair ofsubstantially planar wings approximately bridging the distance betweensaid sides of said case and the front tube and the down tube of abicycle frame, thereby presenting a substantially continuous lateralsurface from approximately the sides of the front tube and down tube tosaid sides of said case.
 18. A dispenser as set forth in claim 1,further comprising a rail formed on said top of said case and abicycle-frame-mountable holster having a guide formed thereon andadapted for engagement with said rail.